Today, as Race Equality Week 2026 begins, façade access installation specialist Integral Cradles and its maintenance partner GIND UK are reinforcing their unwavering commitment to creating truly inclusive workplaces where talent and ability are the only factors that determine success.
The companies are marking this important week by highlighting the construction industry’s ongoing diversity challenges and the proactive steps both firms are taking to break down barriers, champion equality, and build workforces that reflect the diverse communities they serve.
Taking meaningful action
With the construction industry continuing to face significant underrepresentation of ethnic minorities and women, Integral Cradles and GIND UK have implemented a comprehensive approach to equality that goes beyond policies to deliver real cultural change.
The companies’ commitment is reflected in their workforce composition: 80% of employees come from diverse ethnic backgrounds, with 50% born outside the UK. Additionally, 20% of Integral Cradles’ staff are female, including a third of the management team, significantly exceeding industry averages in a sector where women typically represent just 15% of the workforce.
This diversity spans across all levels of both organisations, with 30% of employees originating from outside Europe and 50% from other European nations, bringing together a rich tapestry of perspectives, approaches, and expertise that strengthens every aspect of the businesses’ operations.
Kevin Walton, Managing Director of Integral Cradles and GIND UK, spoke about the importance of fostering genuine equality:
“We’re proud to have a team built on diversity that share the common traits of drive, passion and ambition. Because we recruit based purely on talent and potential, regardless of ethnicity, race, or gender, we have built teams that bring fresh perspectives, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.”
Leading by example
As proud supporters of Race Equality Week, Integral Cradles and GIND UK recognise that achieving true equality requires continuous effort and vigilance. The companies regularly review their recruitment processes, workplace policies, and career development programmes to identify and remove any potential barriers to equality.
“Race Equality Week provides an important opportunity to reflect on our progress and renew our commitment to change,” Kevin explained. “We’re proud of the diverse, talented teams we’ve built, but we recognise there’s always more work to be done. By sharing our approach and successes, we hope to inspire others in the construction industry to embrace diversity as a strategic imperative.”
The companies’ dedication to equality has created workplaces where employees from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential; a model both firms hope will inspire wider change across the construction sector.
Kevin concluded: “Every member of our team, regardless of their background, contributes something unique and valuable. Our message during Race Equality Week and throughout the year is clear: at Integral Cradles and GIND UK, your ethnicity, race, or gender doesn’t define your opportunities; your talent, dedication, and ambition do.”
Race Equality Week takes place this year between 2nd and 8th February. For more information about Race Equality Week 2026, visit: www.raceequalitymatters.com/race-equality-week/
